A La Grange resident is entering the race for the U.S. congressional seat being vacated by Rep. Geoff Davis.

Brian Oerther, a conservative Republican who teaches math for Jefferson County Public Schools, is the third candidate for the position.

Republicans are filing for the election after Davis, a four-term Republican congressman, announced Dec. 15 he will not run again in 2012 for the 4th Congressional district. Davis said he wants to devote more time to his family.

A father of three, Oerther said he is active in local political parties and keeps up with state and federal legislation.

He describes himself as an "everyday, hard-working man" who is able to relate to those he would represent.

"I will fight to bring jobs to Kentucky and our district to help reduce the current unemployment rates," he said.

Oerther said he would work to repeal current legislation threatening Kentucky coal companies while introducing legislation to decrease energy costs and lead to energy independence.

He said increasing the profitability and sustainability of family-owned farms is another important issue, as is tackling insider trading.

"My election will send Washington the message we are no longer willing to sit back while they line their pockets at our expense," Oerther said.

Oerther previously ran for La Grange mayor in 2010.

Oerther and his wife, Mary, have three children. He is a member of Immaculate Conception Church and head soccer coach for South Oldham Middle School.

Two other Republicans are officially in the race, State Rep. Alecia Webb-Edgington, Ft. Wright, and Boone County Judge-Executive Gary Moore.

Oldham County is the westernmost part of the 4th District, which follows the Ohio River to Ashland and includes 24 counties. The largest population concentration is in the Northern Kentucky region of Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties.

However, a redistricting plan in the state house could add part of eastern Jefferson County to the 4th Congressional District. House Speaker Greg Stumbo expects to have a plan passed by the house this week, although adjustments to the map are still being considered.